State's Attorney's Office

The State's Attorney of McHenry County is supported by 32 Assistant State's Attorneys plus a staff including Investigators and two Victim/Witness Coordinators. The function of the State's Attorney is two-fold.

The Civil Division is charged with the legal representation of the County of McHenry, a body politic and corporate, employing over one thousand persons. The State's Attorney represents and advises the County and its Elected Officials in civil litigation arising out of their official duties. The State's Attorney is also responsible for enforcement of County ordinances and collection of child support payments in some cases. Attorneys in the Civil Division provide County Officials with legal advice in matters ranging from contracts to County policy.

The State's Attorney represents the People of the State of Illinois through his Criminal Prosecutors. Other than traffic offenses, any crime occurring within the jurisdiction of McHenry County is the responsibility of the Criminal Division of the State's Attorney's Office. Traffic offenses arising within municipalities are prosecuted by private attorneys representing the municipality. Special prosecutors are assigned to target certain crimes, including those involving gang and drug offenses, habitual sex offenders as well as domestic violence. Cases involving abuse or neglect of children or delinquency are managed by prosecutors assigned to Juvenile Court.

If a citizen is the victim of crime, the offense should be reported immediately to the police for investigation. Upon request of the police authority, an Assistant State's Attorney will provide legal guidance to the police at any time, day or night. Information regarding existing cases or the court process is available through our victims' advocates. Calls are received Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.